Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy is a procedure where a thin, lighted telescope (hysteroscope) is passed through the cervix into the uterus. It allows the surgeon to directly view the inside of the uterine cavity on a monitor, and if needed, small instruments can be passed through the hysteroscope to treat abnormalities at the same time.

Diagnostic hysteroscopy can often be performed with no anaesthesia or light sedation in an outpatient setting. Operative hysteroscopy (where treatment is performed) is usually done under general or regional anaesthesia.

The uterine cavity must be normal for an embryo to implant successfully. Hysteroscopy before IVF identifies and treats uterine abnormalities such as polyps, fibroids, septum, or adhesions that could reduce IVF success rates.

A diagnostic hysteroscopy takes 10–20 minutes. An operative hysteroscopy may take 20–60 minutes depending on the procedure. Most patients go home the same day.

Mild cramping and light bleeding for 1–3 days is normal. Most women return to normal activities within a day or two. IVF can usually proceed in the cycle following hysteroscopy.